Fairfield County Sheriff investigates 'human trafficking' at Carroll massage parlor - The Columbus Dispatch

[Bailey Gallion]

The Fairfield County Sheriff's Office found people they believe are victims of human trafficking while executing a search warrant at a Carroll massage parlor, the sheriff's office said in a news release.

On Monday, the sheriff's office and the Homeland Security Investigations Task Force searched Elegant Massage at 3735 Old Columbus Road NW, according to the news release.

The search followed an "extensive investigation" into suspected human trafficking, labor exploitation and other crimes, the sheriff's office said.

Deputies seized financial records, electronic devices and other evidence. The potential trafficking victims received access to victim resources, the sheriff's office said.

The sheriff's office made no arrests, and charges haven't been filed, the sheriff's office said. An investigation into the business is ongoing.

"Human trafficking is a heinous crime that exploits vulnerable individuals for profit," Sheriff Alex Lape said in the news release. "Our office, along with our law enforcement partners, is dedicated to dismantling these illegal operations and ensuring justice for victims."

The sheriff's office encouraged anyone with information on human trafficking or illicit massage businesses to submit tips through the Fairfield County Sheriff's Office app's tip line.

bagallion@dispatch.com